More London areas opt for continuation of alfresco dining
Businesses without existing licences will continue to be able to make use of pavement space and in some cases the road itself in Warwick Way, Denbigh Street and Churton Street in Pimlico, plus Elizabeth and Eccleston Streets in Belgravia and North Audley Street in Mayfair.
The news follows a recent consultation on the Covent Garden and St. John’s Wood schemes that saw more than 80% of respondents vote in favour of al fresco measures remaining.
Westminster City Council is also exploring the possibility of introducing longer term al fresco schemes in other areas, including Soho.
Traffic is due to return to a number of key Soho streets at the end of this month, bringing to an end the area’s popular al fresco dining scheme.
The streets affected by the controversial ending of the temporary road closures include Frith Street, Greek Street, Dean Street, Moor Street and Old Compton Street.
Westminster City Council says a possible replacement scheme is being mapped out in partnership with local communities and will only go ahead with the support of residents.
Consultation began in July and a second workshop is taking place on tomorrow (30 September) to discuss residents’ and businesses’ objectives for Soho, including the future of outdoor dining.
“It’s no exaggeration to say that outdoor dining has saved many businesses from closure - creating more than 17,000 additional covers across Westminster. We are proud to be able to support the continuation of al fresco dining and will work closely with residents and businesses as we explore permanent schemes," says Matthew Green, Westminster City Council's cabinet member for business, licensing and planning.
